Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

If I suspect parasites how do I sefaly treat the water without harming the plants? If I remove the fish and treat them won't they just get parasites again once they are put back in the aquaponics system?

Yes, they would be likely to be re-infected but it might give them some relief.

What makes you suspect parasites? If they're just flashing then it could be other causes as well.

I'd probably try the salt dip but treating the system with 3 - 6 ppt of salt is likely to be your best option.
Salting - Use un-iodized salt that has no anti-caking agents
Nitrite issues and stress - Done in system - 1ppt = 1KG per 1000L or 1gm per L
Parasites - 3-6ppt - Done in system.
Dip for parasites - 30ppt - .5 to 10 minutes. Done outside of system. Remove fish showing signs of distress from dip immediately (laying on side or erratic behavior for example).

Not all fish or plants react to the salt concentrations the same way. The salt will affect the plants but it's probably your best option. Some plants are more sensitive than others (strawberries seem to be very sensitive). Not too many plants have troubles with 3 ppt but 6 ppt affects more of them. On the other hand the 6 ppt might work better at getting rid of the parasites. Some fish are also more sensitive than others so check on the type you're growing.

Hope this helps

What is the problem with iodine or is it only the anti caking agents that you are worried about.I have just finished reading a book which mainly deals with nutrision and it claims that most of us lack iodine and should take a supliment and I had thought of adding a bit to the water but would like to know more about it.

I'm not certain exactly but I think it has to do with lack of information on toxicity levels and the normal levels vs what you get by adding iodized salt which would be a higher dose. There's more on this site about it - http://www.skepticalaquarist.com/salt. Iodine is also antibacterial so it may have some effect on the biofilter.

Thanks Scottie,
I read all of it and while it doesn't say you can't use it it may not be a good idea.Like when you have a good pee ponic system going and forgetting that you have been taking antibiotics.It takes about a year to get the system running well again.

Is there maybe a integrated pest management way? Is there a insect that will eat the parasites?

Thanks Scotty for the clear info there!
I know this is old but I couldnt find the answer anywhere.
I am currently treating for parasites with 3ppt might go higher to 6ppt done in system. The big question I cannot find is for how long to treat like this 3-6ppt in system to be sure the parasites are "gone"?

Thanks in advance

I have parasites next door, police wont allow me to burn their house down or maim them ....bugga

hey guys, a good idea is to pick up a microscope that is 100x. If you don't know what your treating your just throwing medication at the fish that will stress the fish out more and weaken it. If the fish are flashing or jumping then they are trying to itch themselves. A good chance they have flukes. Look at the gills, they should be nice and reddish pink. if they are a pale pink most likely what ever they have as infested the gills as well. Salt is not the cure all!!!